Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Visits New Cultural Beacon: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation

H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, recently made a visit to the newly inaugurated Bassam Freiha Art Foundation (BFAF) located in the Saadiyat Cultural District. This visit underscores the foundation's mission to enhance the cultural and artistic environment within the region by presenting a diverse array of global art collections.

During his tour, His Highness explored the gallery's extensive collection and expressed admiration for Bassam Saeed Freiha's significant 50-year contribution to culture and literature through his dedication to amassing rare paintings and artworks. This commitment has played a pivotal role in supporting the creative and cultural sectors across various fields.

The Crown Prince emphasized the vital role that arts foundations play in enriching the local cultural scene. He noted their importance in offering new platforms for supporting emerging talent, fostering arts education, encouraging public engagement with the arts, and stimulating dialogue.

Accompanying His Highness were notable figures including Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Tourism and Culture – Abu Dhabi, and Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

The BFAF stands as a non-profit entity that showcases a carefully selected private collection of artworks and paintings from across the globe. Its first exhibition, titled "Echoes of the Orient," presents 25 works that are displayed alongside 19th-century photography and pieces by celebrated contemporary and modern Arab artists.

Open to the public free of charge, BFAF offers visitors an immersive journey through history, culture, and creativity. The art galleries are situated within a building designed by architect Rasha Gebran. The foundation is strategically located near other cultural landmarks such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and the soon-to-open Sheikh Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

This initiative not only enriches Abu Dhabi's cultural landscape but also aligns with broader efforts to support artistic expression and cultural exchange in the region. By showcasing a diverse range of artworks and fostering an environment conducive to dialogue and education, BFAF contributes significantly to the vibrant cultural ecosystem of Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM